Tuesday, April 29, 2014

Can't get enough Duke? Turner Classic Movies network is showcasing John Wayne as their April 'Star of the Month' with an ample series of his very best films. And if you're a big fan of this bigger-than-life legend of classic films like me, you may already be feeling the melancholy set in, knowing this Wayne-loving month has come to a close. Fear not fans- John Wayne's birthday is approaching on May 26. And partner, I've got just the thing to set you straight up in your saddle... the John Wayne Birthday Celebration in Winterset, Iowa.

In the sleepy little midwestern town of Winterset, you will find a fitting tribute to their celebrity son, Marion Robert Morrison who was born here on May 26, 1907. Long before launching his incredibly popular five-decade career in film, John Wayne spent his childhood in this charming town as Marion Morrison. Every year to honor their hometown legend, the proud folks of Winterset host the most marvelous weekend-long celebration on the weekend closest to his birthday. This year, this event takes place May 23-26th. I had the great pleasure of making the journey to this festival last May when their special guest of honor, and theme of events, was the legendary Maureen O'Hara who shared five films with Duke. (You can read more on my trek to last year's fest, by clicking here.)

This year's schedules of events promises to awaken this sleepy small town with much of the same fun-packed frivolity as before. An adventure awaits from FREE film screenings, to a tour of his birthplace home, to a real rodeo, to pie eating and a celebrity benefit dinner plus so much more! If you're the type that absolutely must get up-close to some relatives, co-stars or even book experts of John Wayne because it almost feels like being part of the Wayne inner circle, you're in for a treat. As part of this year's line-up, you will have the chance to nab those name-dropping bragging rights with the following folks:

Lana Wood, co-star with John Wayne from THE SEARCHERS...
-as special guest to the Birthplace Museum Benefit Dinner and Auction, Wood will recount her tales of portraying "little Debbie" on the set while working with Wayne and Ford in Monument Valley. Wood is also known as Natalie Wood's real-life little sister and for her stint as a 'Bond girl.' Following, John Wayne's daughter Aissa will host the popular auction of John Wayne memorabilia.

Scott Eyman, biographer of "John Wayne: The Life and Legend"...
-discussion and autograph session from the celebrated author who has been this month's guest programmer along side Robert Osborne, introducing Wayne's "Star of the Month" film series.

Glenn Frankel, author of "The Searchers: The Making of an American Legend"...
-discussion and book signing from this New York Times best-selling author who accounts the real back stories behind this enduring classic western.

Many activities at the John Wayne Birthday Celebration are free, some events attach a reasonable cost and certain key events require reserved tickets (such as the Birthplace Museum Benefit Dinner and Auction)~ so get your tickets early! Check out their site for all the details at www.johnwaynebirthplace.museum/birthday or call (877) 462-1044. Donations are happily accepted so fundraising is ongoing for the world's only museum dedicated to John Wayne. Groundbreaking for this museum should kick off this spring!

(*photos and scheduling are courtesy of the John Wayne Birthplace Museum site)

Monday, April 28, 2014

Today is Holocaust Remembrance Day (Yom HaShoah). This post is dedicated to all the families tragically affected by this horrific period in history, and in hopes that we shall never forget to recognize the faces of evil, while remembering to seek out the goodness in humanity...

The great villains of the big screen have always been a draw for audiences. We love to hate the evil doers, the bad boys and naughty ladies. A magnificent protagonist is nothing without a strong antagonist and vice-versa. These roles are clearly defined for us in Orson Welles' THE STRANGER (1946).

In THE STRANGER (1946), the evil antagonist doesn't get much more evil than a nazi. And not just any nazi; but Franz Kindler (portrayed by Orson Welles), the mastermind nazi responsible for the horrific deaths of millions in the Holocaust. First we are introduced to Mr. Wilson (portrayed by Edward G. Robinson) of the War Crimes Commission who is searching for this evil fugitive from justice. Kindler has effectively kept his identity a complete mystery. No photos, no identifying marks and no trace of his whereabouts exist. Our only clue that sets Kindler apart is his obsessive passion for clocks. And the only connection to Kindler is his former partner in crime and fellow nazi Konrad Meinike (portrayed by Konstantine Shayne). So Wilson releases Meinike in hopes he'll lead him to Kindler, then follows him to Harper, Connecticut.

In this quaint little town, Wilson arrives pretending to be an antique dealer, tight on Meinike's trail. But soon Meinike gives him the slip in the school gymnasium and knocks him out cold. Then Meinike makes an uncomfortable visit to Kindler's home. Kindler is now operating under the guise as Charles Rankin, professor at the local prep school. He also is about to be married to a beautiful and deeply compassionate woman, Mary Longstreet. She's at his house hanging curtains as Meinike mysteriously shows up looking for "Rankin." Mary is puzzled why this foreign-accented stranger leaves without giving his name or why he's so anxious to see her soon-to-be-husband.

When Meinike catches up with Kindler aka Rankin their conversation is brief. He admits that he was followed but believes he killed his pursuer. Kindler knows he can't afford to have Meinike near him, as the only threat in revealing his true identity and ruining his cover. So, he kills Meinike right in broad daylight, out in the woods but close by to students running by. He swiftly covers up his body with dirt, rocks and leaves. Meanwhile, Wilson awakens (not quite as dead as Meinike had thought) and is treated by the local doctor. He manages to charm his way into a dinner at the Longstreet home to find clues on the whereabouts of Meinike and Kindler because he heard this Professor Rankin has an affinity for clocks, such as the town's clock tower that has become his hobby to restore. The dinner attendees include Mary's father, Mary's brother Noah, Wilson, the doctor, and Mr. and Mrs. Rankin, just back from their honeymoon. The conversation becomes intriguing when the topic of 'what to do with the post-Holocaust Germans' and Professor Rankin responds that "Marx was not a German, but a Jew." Wilson knows only a nazi would make this statement so he decides to stay longer.

Wilson decides to confide in Noah as to his real identity and purpose for his stay, in hopes to somehow get the truth to Mary. He knows this won't be easy. When Rankin takes Red, Mary's beloved Irish Setter for a walk, the dog starts digging at Meinike's secret grave site. That night Rankin locks Red in the cellar to keep him from revealing the dead body. When Red starts howling, Charles Rankin tells Mary he plans to keep her dog locked up or on a chain around the clock. This disturbs Mary greatly- she doesn't believe in imprisoning her pet. He's starting to show a whole new side of himself to his new bride. Pace picks up quickly as Red is found dead and Wilson and Noah discover he's been murdered from poisoning. Based on further evidence on Red, Wilson concludes the proximity of Meinike's burial site. With both Red and Meinike dead bodies discovered, Wilson knows it's only a matter of time before Kindler makes another bold move. This time it's likely to kill his new wife, who surely must be wondering how this murdered man is connected to her husband and why her husband has pressured her to pretend she never met Meinike. Earlier Rankin concocts a lie for Mary as to why they must keep his connection to Meinike a secret but he also admits he is the one who killed him... for a 'good reason.' Shockingly, Mary accepts his lies and continues to support him.

Wilson knows he must act immediately and boldly. He sees Mary's blind loyalty to her husband but has faith that her strong morality will lead her to eventually accept the truth. It must be shown to her in shocking realness to break through. Wilson and Mr. Longstreet arrange a private meeting with Mary. She's curious and worried. In this meeting, Wilson comes straight with Mary for the first time. After explaining his real occupation and purpose for his stay in Harper, he gets to the core of the matter with reels of Kindler's horrors in Europe. [Interestingly, this was the very first time the real footage from the Holocaust was actually shown in a feature film.] When he explains this horrific connection to her directly, she is overwhelmed and runs out in deep denial and disbelief.

For the benefit of any unfamiliar with this film, I'll leave the remainder of the film and its dramatic conclusion for you to see for yourself. Orson does a wonderful job both in front of and behind the camera as its director and leading villain. But he is not the big player in this film. And maybe that's why Welles said this was one of his least favorite films. Edward G. Robinson takes the lead as the wise and insightful detective, a true champion for truth and justice. In his small stature and approachable casualness, he gains acceptance quickly by those around him. He's genuine. It's because of the strong case this character builds, the evilness in Welles' character is so strong via contrast. We don't see as much screen time with Welles' character Kindler/Rankin and yet we don't even have to. Through Robinson's performance we despise Kindler while barely seeing him on screen. Then Welles adds fear in our hearts via his solid performance.

To add to our perception of Kindler's evil ways, Loretta Young contributes a strong contrast through her splendid portrayal of the sweet and trusting Mary Longstreet/Mrs. Charles Rankin. Her capacity for an infinite belief in goodness in others is both her downfall but also her saving grace. She is so pure in her love for her new husband that it distorts her ability to see his villainous ways. Despite being in love, it is also due to her faith in humanity that it's impossible for a person like Mary to stay supportive of a truly evil monster like Kindler, once evidence reveals the truth. Loretta Young does a superb job of embodying Mary in an authentic manner. She is not so much vulnerable and naive as Kindler had hoped when targeting her to be his cover, rather her moral compass is unyielding. In a way, by being his polar opposite, her pure goodness of heart is his ultimate nemesis...

Friday, April 25, 2014

On April 9th, 2014 I embarked upon an unforgettable journey to Tinseltown. And I loved the experience so much I just had to share fifty reasons why. "Wait... did she say FIFTY?!" Yes, fifty. But don't be alarmed, this is not quite a War and Peace version of the 5th annual Turner Classic Movies Film Festival. Fifty reasons to love TCMFF is an easy and quick list when there's SO much to love. So much in multiple screenings, events and incredible opportunities taking place all at once that a majority of this fest is generally missed. I know I missed out on many, many things I would have equally cherished. But without cloning or time travel, one can only take pleasure in the path chosen. That's exactly what I did...

1. This was my very first trip to Hollywood (and for a lifelong classic film fan this is a BIG deal!) Specifically, this was my VERY FIRST TCM Film Festival!
2. In actuality, this was my first trip by myself, for myself. Oh sure, I've traveled by myself loads of times, on business. But this was my very first vacation without kids (yes I have four teenagers), without the hubby, and without any agenda other than unadulterated cinematic fun.
3. Robert Osborne,in the flesh! (okay, so I haven't officially met him yet, but I got close by- which is pretty amazing for this TCMFF newbie. Perhaps next time, I'll get the chance)
4. Speaking of amazing TCM hosts... Ben Mankewitz and Ileana Douglas. That's right, I DID get to experience meeting Ben and Ileana -both charming and fabulous and both Hollywood ancestral legends in their own time.

5. TCMFF Tweetup. This took place the evening prior to the opening day at a modern speakeasy, "Sadie's." I was lucky enough (or rather chatty enough) to be included in the TCMFF Social Crew. Meeting all the fellow tweetaholics was a treat because I already knew most of them via twitterverse!

Laura of @LaurasMiscMovies and TCM's Scott McGee... some of the nicest folks you'll ever meet!

Annemarie of @ClassicMovieHub, Aurora of @citizenscreen, Cindy of @Cindybugz and Laura of @LaurasMiscMovies at the TCM Tweetup, repose before the party started hopping

Will aka @WillMcKinley and me. It was like meeting a long lost brother. #FilmFamily

CINEMA SISTERS! Hanging with Aurora aka @citizenscreen at the Egyptian.

6. Meeting my #TCM and #TCMparty friends- IN PERSON! I was both excited and nervous leading up to the moments of meeting these 'modern pen pals.' As a friendly Midwestern type, I was worried my overzealous persona may be off-putting up close. Happily, or so it seemed, my worries proved to be unwarranted. I immediately felt at home with my #TCMparty pals. Within minutes, it's as though we had all known each other for decades. Like a family reunion; picking up where we left off.

7. The FORMOSA CAFE - after the Tweetup many of us headed over to this historic establishment. I had heard of the many stories from the Golden Age of Hollywood that took place at this cozy venue. I couldn't have been any more thrilled to socialize with my chums in the same space as where stars like Bogie, Gable and Sinatra dined.
8. TCMFF Red Carpet. Okay, so I didn't actually attend this event. I merely peeked at all the glamorous celebrities as I walked across the street. But what I did see from curious passing and from my friends' photo sharings that positioned a closer view, it was a glorious spectacle. Perhaps next year I'll work out the timing to claim a spot on the bleachers.
9. 5th AVENUE GIRL (1939) on the big screen. While I've seen this film a couple of times before, this screening was special. This was my first viewing on the big screen and my first screening at TCM Film Festival. Somehow Ginger Rogers conveyed an extra dose of sardonic charm this time.
10. BACHELOR MOTHER (1939) on the big screen. A Ginger Rogers double feature?! How can a gal be so lucky on the initial day of this wondrous fest?!

11. Comedian Greg Proops introduction to BACHELOR MOTHER. This veteran comic was a pro... sharp, witty, and fast-paced. Besides being very funny, I was also impressed by his mastery of detail on this film and the background stories. Yet this celeb of comedy was also just like us- a passionate fan.
12. Bumping into actor James Karen and his wife, Alba Francesca. I have chatted casually with Jim Karen during my attendance at the last two year's of the Buster Keaton Celebration in Iola, Kansas. So when I stumbled upon this couple while rushing into a screening, I will so thrilled to see their familiar faces that I bowled them both over with exuberant hugs, immediately followed by my apologies for my bold familiarity. I reminded them of our chats at the Buster Keaton Celebration (like we were just the oldest of Kansas pals) and the two were kind enough to state they distinctly remembered me. I doubt they actually did, but I appreciated their kindness for my benefit.
13. Waking up to THE THIN MAN (1934). On Friday morning at 9am, I enjoyed a screening of this favorite classic while exchanging gasps of delight at Myrna Loy's exquisite fashions and chuckles with Kimberly of @GlamAmor, Aurora of @CitizenScreen and Lara of @backlotsfilm.

15. TOUCH OF EVIL (1958). Introduced by Charleton Heston's son, producer and director Fraser Heston, we were treated with a BEAUTIFULLY restored version of this film noir classic. The imagery was breathtaking. You could see every dirty bead of sweat on Orson Welle's bloated face and I couldn't have been more thrilled.
16. Buttons. So many fun buttons! The good folks at TCMFF conceived this brilliant idea to reward us with a variety of social media buttons, with the ability to earn each unique button via a different social media experience. I really commend the folks at TCM for creating outstanding design work for this year's festival. I chatted with a gal named Katie as we waited for the crosswalk light one early morning. I noticed her TCMFF lanyard and initiated a conversation on how much I admired the design work on the many banners displayed. It turns out she not only works for TCM but was responsible for those designs. Great job!
17. More buttons! Additionally, we met a gentleman, Mark (aka 'the button guy') who created and brought an inventory of his own buttons, many representing the various featured films from this year's cinematic line-up. He was an all around sweet guy and generous with his buttons- happily giving these away to any and all who asked.

18. The BEST button of them all. Speaking of fun buttons, my hubby created a magnificent button of my own to wear at the TCMFF. It represents my love of classic film and specifically Cary Grant, plus it states my twitter handle for the pragmatic purpose of identifying me via my twitter presence. He did a heck of a job with it because I received countless comments of praise. Well done, honey!
19. Margaret O'Brien introducing MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS (1944). I had heard that this legendary child star of the silver screen, now 77 years old and as energetic as ever, was seen sporting blue hair and nose ring on the Red Carpet the night prior. (How cool is that?!) Engaging us with witty anecdotes, Ms. O'Brien hadn't lost her touch to capture our attention. And the film itself? The experience can only be described as a joyful toe-tapping, technicolor dream with a tear or two shed by yours truly.
20. Shaking Margaret O'Brien's hand. While ordering a quick bite as carry-out, we spotted Ms. O'Brien in the Roosevelt diner, the "25 Degrees" restaurant. Trying to keep our wits about us, Aurora of @citizenscreen and I made the decision to act swiftly and introduce ourselves. Upon gently and respectfully taking her hand, she politely returned a greeting then turned to her seated companion and asked us if "we had met Judy Garland's son." Gobsmacked, we smiled and shook his hand as well.
21. The GRAUMAN'S CHINESE THEATER. Yeah, I know it's actually called TCL Chinese Theatre Imax. But hey, it will always be Grauman's to me. This jewel of a movie house was amazing. And while I heard its recent restoration eliminated more than 200 seats, the seating was very comfortable and the architectural details remain astounding.
22. Mel Brooks introducing BLAZING SADDLES (1974). This was my #1 pick of all the anticipated screenings. I'm a huge Mel Brooks fan and the very thought of seeing this hilarious comedy classic, up on the big screen, introduced directly by Brooks himself, at the very same theater (Grauman's) that is featured in this film... well, it was almost too surreal to process. As anticipated, I laughed myself silly.
23. Hand and Foot Prints of Legends at Grauman's Chinese Theatre. If you've ever seen BLAZING SADDLES, you understand the significance of these...

24. Patton Oswalt, introducing a midnight screening of ERASERHEAD (1977). Oswalt was a riot. I loved hanging with my #TCMparty friends as we got punchy from the long day. I had never seen this David Lynch cult classic so I wasn't sure what to expect. But I can honestly say it was the strangest, most bizarre film I've ever seen with no redeeming qualities to speak of. To each their own though.
25. An enormous serving of a 'laughter breakfast' with CITY LIGHTS (1931). That Saturday morning, a group of us #TCMparty peeps (including Joel of @joelrwilliams1, Kay of @KayStarStyle and Aurora of @citizenscreen) laughed until we cried while taking in this silent classic. If you've never seen this film, and especially if you ever are in need of a 'pick me up', I encourage you to see it pronto.
26. Shaking hands with actor Jason Lee. Lee introduced the screening of CITY LIGHTS as a passionate fan of this iconic classic and of the genius behind it, Charlie Chaplin. Afterwards as we filed out of the theater, I stole a quick moment to shake his hand, thanking him for his heart-felt intro. I'm a huge fan of Chaplin's masterpiece, too. Jason Lee came across as a very genuine and down-to-earth in person. Later that day as many of us took turns posing for silly pics in the TCM photo booth, I saw Lee with what appeared to be his entire family doing the same. Fun to see a whole family get involved in this classic film experience.
27. Another opportunity to see silent films on the big screen. I am spoiled in my home state with more than a few opportunities to see silent films in the way they were meant to be seen- on the big screen, with an engaged audience surrounding you. While CITY LIGHTS did not have a live musical accompaniment, there were a couple more choices to see a grand silent. Harold Lloyd's supersized fun silent WHY WORRY? (1923) was introduced with a new score by maestro Carl Davis and granddaughter Suzanne Lloyd. Additionally, Hitchcock's early chiller THE LODGER (1927) was screened the way a silent REALLY should be seen, in tandem with the live performance of the Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra.
28. Eggs Benedict at the 25 Degrees restaurant. This diner housed at the front entrance of the Roosevelt hotel is a relatively speedy and yummy option for grabbing nourishment on the run between events. And you're almost guaranteed to bump into fellow TCMFF pals and celebrities, too. Personally, I recommend the eggs benedict or turkey burger.
29. Often standing in long lines. I realize this would normally be a negative thing. But at the TCM Film Festival, this is truly a very positive experience. This was the perfect opportunity to strike up conversations with fellow ole movie fans. You'll be pleasantly surprised to discover what bonds you can create in these lines, chatting with folks from all over the country.

30. Strategizing to get the lowest # possible for your spot in line. This process of snagging a spot as early as possible allowed for priority seating. For any screening or event that you absolutely, positively must see, the goal and bragging rights was to secure the lowest number for your position in line. This involved sometimes skipping an event in the time slot prior. Hey, this fest isn't for amateurs!
31. The popcorn only diet. For those like myself who want to get the most bang for your buck, there is very little time for actual eating of food that comes in the form of a square meal. I was advised to bring snacks. But otherwise, the most accessible snack is popcorn at the concession stand. Where else is it acceptable to eat popcorn for breakfast, minus the good ole college days? No problems here.
32. The "Capture the Flag Movie Screening Game"... is the best exercise. Worried about that concession stand diet affecting your waistline while hob-nobbing with celebs at the TCM Fest? No worries! With the mad dash strategy involved to race to each screening or event, combined with little time to eat more than a handful of popcorn every few hours, you are in better shape than you might think.

33. Mel Brooks Interview with Bob Osborne. Here was my chance to see Mel Brooks up close. Earlier in the day, we got the inside scoop about this taping for a special one on one interview at the Roosevelt. There wasn't a moment's hesitation that this was a must-see event. Squeezing in to the front row yet off to the far side of the stage in hopes to get a better view of his face, rather than his back; we hung on to every word. He told several stories about the making of BLAZING SADDLES including what it was like to work with writer Richard Pryor and how Cleavon Little was chosen for the lead; how ERASERHEAD led him to David Lynch as his director for THE ELEPHANT MAN (1980) and a hilarious bit about meeting Cary Grant at the Commissary. He also spoke sweetly about his wife Anne Bancroft. There was a subtle yet notable pause to take a drink of water just before he spoke her name. She passed nearly nine years ago and there's no doubt in my heart she is very much still and always with him.

[from left to right: Paula aka @Paula_Guthat, Aurora of @CitizenScreen, Will aka @WillMcKinley, Alan aka @AlanHait, Kimberly of @GlamAmor, me, Elise of @EliseCD, Fussy of @MiddParent and just off camera: Nora of @NitrateDiva and Kay of @KayStarStyle is taking this fun pic!]

35. Chicken Pot Pie at infamous, The Musso & Frank Grill. Proudly serving Hollywood since 1919, here was another Hollywood landmark that seemed untouched by the passage of time. From the waiters to the classic menu selections that appeared unchanged for decades, to my heavenly chicken pot pie, this was a special treat. Steeped rich in Hollywood history, as I looked around I could imagine the stars like Chaplin and Fairbanks as regulars dining at the softly worn leather booths or Bogie and Bacall sharing a drink at the bar. But my greatest source of enjoyment for that lunch was the company of my #TCMparty friends.
36. The stars on Hollywood Walk of Fame. I suppose these sidewalk stars seem hum-drum to a Hollywood or LA area resident. The most eccentric crowds of folks that were either selling or demonstrating their wares and often festooned in outrageous costumes certainly paid no attention to the famous names permanently displayed underfoot. But for me, this was yet another hallmark of Hollywood history. From the fantasy to the reality, there was much for me to take in.
37. Judy Garland: A Legendary Film Career @ Club TCM. This was a wonderful presentation by award winning producer and author John Fricke of clips and intimate tales of Judy Garland. I got misty more than once. What an unparalleled talent she was. There will never be anyone else like her.
38. TCM at 20: Inspired By Classics. This was a packed house event at Club TCM, which was set up beautifully at the Roosevelt. The panel of guests reflected a sampling of the artists commissioned to create works of art to celebrate TCM's 20th anniversary. The panel included Jane Seymour (my GAWD this woman does not age), and the legendary talent and beauty Kim Novak.

39. EL CAPITAN! The architectural details on this old movie house were phenomenal. What an uniquely fun treat to watch a man skillfully playing a grand dame of a pipe organ prior to our feature. Then moments prior to our presenters, this organ, as the man continued to play to the end of his song, magically descended into the floor. Pure Hollywood magic and the show hadn't even begun yet.
40. John Ford's HOW GREEN WAS MY VALLEY (1941). Surprisingly, this was actually my first time seeing this Ford epic film. I had always caught parts of it but never had the pleasure to see it in it's entirety. What an emotionally moving film. Visually speaking, it is a stunning Ford feast for the eyes to behold. Hard to believe I waited this long to see it. But I'm thrilled I got to experience it with my friends in the balcony, many who were just as choked up as me.

41. Maureen O'Hara's introduction to HOW GREEN WAS MY VALLEY. This was the moment we had camped out in line and waited for more than an hour. My silver screen idol from my Irish American childhood was right there, in the flesh. I peered down from the balcony and could barely swallow as she appeared on stage. A highlight from her brief interview with Bob Osborne occurred as Osborne asked her what it was like working with John Ford. She raised her flat palm to the side of her mouth, looking out to the audience and mischievously responded in her distinct brogue, "I thought we were here to talk about me." The crowd immediately with a thunderous laughter. Even at 93, this lady kept us on the edge of our seats.

42. Maureen O'Hara Interview with Bob Osborne. We were treated with yet another opportunity to see my favorite Irish lass. But this time, strategy was essential to ensure a much closer proximity to this delightful Dubliner. So Aurora of @citizenscreen, Annemarie of @classicmoviehub and I protected our territory about THREE hours early at the velvet rope in order to garner the best spot to see our beloved Ms. O'Hara. After chatting with Bob on topics such as how much she enjoyed working with Charles Laughton, it was sadly time to end the conversation. But this spitfire was not done with us just yet. Not only did she grant us the privilege of turning around so we could take photos of something other than her back, but she also welcomed a couple of questions from the audience. I stood practically at arm's length from her. It was all too surreal for words.
43. HAT CHECK GIRL (1932). We #TCMpartiers were on board for this little PreCode gem. We were one of the lucky ones to nab a spot in this smaller venue. It was a fun lark and we enjoyed Ginger Rogers company yet again!

44. Academy Conversations: THE ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD (1938). Talk about a delightful time! The entertaining pair of Craig Baron and Ben Burtt were a total hoot as they donned their Sherwood Forest feather caps and educated us on the various tricks and special effects behind the scenes of this treasured American classic. Let's face it, spending a Sunday morning watching Errol Flynn's snug tights in all his technicolor glory ain't have bad.(hamming it up poolside...)

45. The Roosevelt Poolside. Simply gorgeous. It had a distinctly old Hollywood glamor look and feel with all the modern amenities.
46. THE WIZARD OF OZ (1939) This was my final film of the festival. As we stood in line, @citizenscreen and I struck up a conversation with our line neighbors (as we do..) and as a result these charming folks were media broadcasters from ABC Radio and interviewed us with mics right on the spot! Bob Osborne himself greeted the audience to close out this final film. We then watched Dorothy and the gang in a brilliant 3D restoration, back in the majestic Grauman's Theater exactly where it premiered in Hollywood 75 years ago. It gave "there's no place like home" a whole new meaning.

47. Treasures of the Silver Screen. Treasures were every where I looked. From the world's most recognizable blue gingham dress of my fellow Kansas gal Dorothy, to the original piano used in CASABLANCA which is much tinier than you'd ever imagine, classic treasures abound. I wanted to capture some of this lightning in a bottle by bringing home a souvenir to extend my memories. So I purchased some beautiful jewelry in the TCM gift shop. (And as tiny as that piano was, I don't think it would fit as a carry on.) With many of this year's TCMFF marketing and design themes being a nod to the 75th anniversary of THE WIZARD OF OZ, I was contemplating what item to bring home to Kansas. Then my friend Elise aka @EliseCD came to the rescue by generously donating her bag of goodies including a "Toto, I don't think we're in Kansas anymore" notebook with Dorothy's profile standing in the shadow of Grauman's and a stationary collection of the commissioned 20th anniversary art. Aurora of @citizenscreen also kindly gave her Dorothy notebook for me to pass on to my hubby. Aren't #TCMparty friends the best?!
48. Closing Night Party! All dolled up, I joined my friends at the Club TCM then joined others poolside. Taking a few snapshots here and there, it started to sink in that this grand adventure was coming to a close. I didn't want it to end.

49. Miguel's Monster Island Resort Podcast with some #TCMparty homies. To make this moment last longer, it seemed fitting to join in on Miguel's podcast, poolside by the fire at the end of closing night party. Discussing our various thoughts on the 5th annual TCM Film Festival, it was the perfect nightcap with dear friends. [See episode #115 at MonsterIslandResort.org]
50. My tearful goodbye. I didn't want to leave this cinematic utopia. More importantly, now that I had connected with my TCM friends, I REALLY didn't want to say goodbye. After the exchange of hugs, I hesitantly made my way into the backseat of the cab (Will aka @willmckinley and Aurora @citizenscreen insisted I not walk alone to my hotel on behalf of my protective hubby), I looked up at the two with tears welling up in my eyes and waved farewell.

This was an experience of a lifetime for me. So of course I plan to do this all over again next year- but this time accompanied by my sweet husband. Dorothy was right, there is no place like home. Perhaps I'm lucky enough to have two homes: with my family in Kansas and wherever my Old Movie Weirdo pals shall gather.

Wednesday, April 16, 2014

Robert Aldrich's FLIGHT OF THE PHOENIX (1965) is a story of struggle, team work and survival. With a splendid cast, the diverse array of characters adds to this solid story. Based on the 1964 novel of the same title, written by Elleston Trevor, this film was not exactly a big hit at the box office at the time. But since then, it has slowly become a favorite among many classic film fans... including me.

Our story begins via an aircraft en route to Benghazi, which today may evoke a very different image than this film's take back in 1965. We are immediately placed within the twin-engine Fairchild C-82 aircraft carrying oil company cargo and passengers, piloted by veteran aviator Frank Towns (James Stewart) and co-pilot/navigator Lew Moran (Sir Richard Attenborough). The rest of the passengers/cast:

Due to an abrupt sand storm, the engines each blow out and they make a crash landing in the desert. Upon sudden impact, cargo is dramatically shifted, resulting in the immediate deaths of a couple of the passengers and leaving one heavily injured. The remaining team soon reveal their differing personalities and often conflicting views on survival tactics. This adds to the tension as we dig deeper into each of the character's own views on how to live and who to follow.

There are many films that depict tales of survival and triumph with an impressive ensemble cast. Ronald Neame/Irwin Allen's THE POSEIDON ADVENTURE (1972), John Sturges' THE GREAT ESCAPE (1963) and Alfred Hitchcock's LIFEBOAT (1944) come to mind. But this film does a particularly marvelous job of exploring the complexities of each of these unique characters. We get to know these characters more so than simply what they do for a living. We see their strengths and frailties- the warts and all.

FLIGHT OF THE PHOENIX is deeply layered in shades of gray. When Captain Harris dutifully goes out to survey a dangerous situation when a small group of bandits camp nearby, we see that Harris is a strictly 'by-the-book' military man who refuses to compromise, even at high risk and when it means his own demise. But we respect him for going out on his own terms. However, in sharp contrast I find enormous disrespect for Sergeant Watson when he refuses his direct order to accompany Harris, his British Army superior. And yet it is the cowardly and smug Watson who avoids being murdered by the bandits due to his own path to survival.

Ernest Bourgnine's portrayal of the slow-witted foreman, Trucker Cobb is a genuine and fantastic performance. With more expression than dialogue in several of his scenes, we peek into the soul of Cobb. And as such, we invest great compassion for his misguided motivations, despite that leading to his painfully ill-fated ending.

The triangle of tension and social dynamics amongst Moran, Towns and Dorfmann is a main example of how complex these characters get. Brilliantly portrayed by Attenborough, we first see navigator Moran as a simple peace maker. There is incredible tension between the 'old-school' pilot Towns and Dorfmann, the straight-laced aeronautical designer. These two are complete opposites in every way, and power struggle becomes a huge point of contention several times throughout the story. Moran is able to convince Towns that he must concede to Dorfmann, no matter how much Towns finds him disagreeable and insulting. He persuades Towns that Dorfmann's far-fetched idea to rebuild a new airplane from parts of the crashed plane is likely their only hope. In the process of swallowing his pride, Towns deflects by verbally ripping into Moran. While Towns took full responsibility and guilt for the plane crash from the beginning, he now rages against Moran- stating that his alcoholism that may be to blame for their ill-fated situation.

Stewart does an impeccable job of portraying this very human character of this traditionalist aviator. He is not simply the leader whom everyone follows without question, as one would often see in many of his roles. Not unlike when George Bailey is tested by his dire situation before Clarence drops in (from Frank Capra's IT'S A WONDERFUL LIFE), we see a very conflicted and tortured role in Frank Towns. Stewart's portrayal of Towns realistically goes deep into this man's anguish and desperation as when one is pushed to their extreme limits yet resists for the sake of survival... and not just for the fulfillment of his own continued existence, but for the entire remaining lot of survivors.

Without revealing a humdinger of a spoiler towards the end of the film (I shall refrain for any of you who have not already seen this intriguing film), I will instead assert another notable feature and theme to this classic... aviation. As the first grand daughter of two pilots myself (both my mother's father and my father's father were pilots til their last days), I'm a huge fan of aviation. I grew up going to "Fly-Ins" and Air Shows and watching planes being built from scratch in hangars. My fascination with flight started early as my first experience was in a 2-seater 'single engine' at the mere age of 6 weeks. Knowing that James Stewart was an avid pilot in real life, simply added more enjoyment for me- as I watched the evolution of this airplane 'rising from the ashes.' Sadly, it was the famous real-life stunt pilot Paul Mantz that lost his life in the making of this film.

This post was my contribution to the JAMES STEWART BLOGATHON hosted by the ever talented Rick of the insightful blog, THE CLASSIC FILM and TV CAFE. Be sure to read all the talented bloggers' entries to this fun blogathon...